Real estate in India is evolving rapidly and stands at the cusp of disruption due to technology, policy reforms, and innovation. Having already made strides in their respective fields, these entrepreneurs are now spearheading the transformation of real estate. Their vision and business acumen have shaped the trajectory of Indian real estate. Here are the top entrepreneurs in the country whose contributions have led to the steady growth of the real estate industry.
Rajiv Singh: With over 35 years of expertise in real estate, Rajiv Singh is the chairperson of DLF Ltd. Under his leadership, DLF has delivered over 104 mn sq ft since going public in 2007. His vision has built DLF into a resilient business capable of withstanding market fluctuations, instilling confidence in its stakeholders. It has also set new benchmarks in housing, infrastructure and urban development. The company is widely recognised due to its significant contribution in economic development of Haryana. Rajiv Singh holds a graduate degree from Massachusetts Institute of Technology as well as a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Rajiv Singh was conferred with Udyog Ratna Award in 2007 for his contribution in development of Haryana.
Neetish Sarda: Neetish Sarda is the Founder and Managing Director of Smartworks, an office experience and managed campus platform. He oversees critical operational and growth-oriented functions of the company, primarily business development, sales, operations, product and technology. He has been honoured with several awards such as the Co-Working Young Achiever of the Year – National by Realty+ at the Co-Working Conclave & Excellence Awards 2023, the Dynamic Entrepreneur of the Year (Business Transformation) award by the Entrepreneur Awards 2023, India’s Top 200 Self-made Entrepreneurs of 282 the Millennia 2023 by IDFC First Private Banking and Hurun India, and Grohe Hurun India Real Estate 100 recognised him as the youngest real estate leader in 2024. Neetish Sarda is a science graduate from the University of London and holds 9+ years of experience in real estate.
Abhishek Lodha: Abhishek Lodha is the Managing Director &CEO of Macrotech Developers (Lodha Group). This 44-year-old company has a formidable presence in Mumbai, Thane, Pune, Bengaluru and London. Under the leadership of Abhishek Lodha, it has delivered over 100 mn sq ft to date. Abhishek Lodha comes with 20 years of experience and expertise in design, finance, strategy, risk management, sustainability, and governance. He has been associated with McKinsey &Company in the past. He also holds a Master’s degree in Industrial and Systems Engineering from Georgia Tech University, USA.
Harsh Binani: Harsh Binani is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Smartworks. He oversees the finance, corporate, and support functions, such as investor relations, finance and accounts, marketing, and human resources. With fourteen years of experience in management consulting and the flexible workspace industry, he has been conferred with the BW Disrupt 40 Under 40 Award for his remarkable contribution to real estate. Harsh Binani is an alumnus of Shri Ram College of Commerce and J.L. Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University, USA.
Vikas Oberoi: Vikas Oberoi is the Chairperson and Managing Director of Oberoi Realty. Armed with two decades of experience, his global vision has led to expansion and diversification of the company, inspiring others in the industry. He is involved in every project—from its inception to completion in hospitality, retail, office spaces and social infrastructure. He is an alumnus of Harvard University.
These entrepreneurs have played a pivotal role in expanding the real estate industry, leading to significant employment generation and economic development. The innovative projects led by them have significantly transformed India’s economic landscape, making it one of the fastest-growing real estate markets globally. Their contributions inspire optimism for the future of the industry.
